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Caramel Hot Chocolate Brownie Mousse Cake
Gerry Biordi

Caramel Hot Chocolate Brownie Mousse Cake

Caramel Hot Chocolate Brownie Mousse Cake is an indulgent layered dessert featuring a fudgy brownie base, creamy chocolate mousse, rich caramel, and cozy hot chocolate flavors. Decadent and impressive, this dessert is perfect for holidays, celebrations, or any special occasion.
Prep Time 35 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 5 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 10
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American-inspired
Calories: 590

Ingredients
  

Brownie Base
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Hot Chocolate Mousse
  • 1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream, divided
  • 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar
  • 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
Caramel Cream
  • 1/2 cup caramel sauce
  • 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
  • tablespoons powdered sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt
For Garnishing
  • Extra caramel sauce
  • Chocolate shavings or chopped chocolate, optional
  • Mini marshmallows, optional

Method
 

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8-inch or 9-inch springform pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
  2. Whisk together the melted butter and granulated sugar. Add the eggs and vanilla and mix until smooth.
  3. In a separate bowl, combine the flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir just until combined. Fold in the chocolate chips.
  4. Spread the brownie batter evenly into the prepared pan. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until the edges are set and the center remains slightly fudgy.
  5. Let the brownie cool completely before adding the mousse.
  6. Place the chocolate chips in a heatproof bowl. Heat 1/2 cup of the heavy cream until hot but not boiling. Pour it over the chocolate and let it sit for 1 to 2 minutes. Stir until smooth
  7. Mix the cocoa powder, vanilla, and salt into the melted chocolate. Allow the mixture to cool until slightly warm or close to room temperature.
  8. Whip the remaining 1 cup heavy cream with the powdered sugar until soft to medium peaks form.
  9. Fold the whipped cream gently into the cooled chocolate mixture in two or three additions. Do not overmix.
  10. Spread the mousse evenly over the cooled brownie base. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours.
  11. To make the caramel cream, whip the cold heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla until soft peaks form. Gently fold in the caramel sauce and pinch of salt.
  12. Drizzle with additional caramel sauce and garnish with chocolate shavings or mini marshmallows if desired.
  13. Chill for another 30 to 60 minutes before slicing. For clean slices, use a sharp knife warmed in hot water and wiped dry between cuts.

Video

Notes

  • Do not add hot chocolate mixture to the whipped cream because it can melt the cream and loosen the mousse.
  • Avoid overbaking the brownie. A few moist crumbs on a toothpick indicate the right texture.
  • Use cold heavy cream for the best whipping results.
  • Refrigerate overnight when possible for the cleanest layers.
  • Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
  • The cake can be frozen for up to 1 month. Add fresh caramel drizzle and toppings after thawing.
  • Nutrition information is an estimate and can vary depending on the brands and ingredients used.